Al Fresco Summer Dining in Philadelphia
Best Restaurants to Dine Al Fresco in Philadelphia: Northern Liberties and More
Admit it: Your mind has already jumped to the Piazza at Schmidt’s. Unfortunately, the modern-Italianate expanse is the Bizarro version of 13th Street: great outdoor space, forgettable grub. So make the old reliable Bar Ferdinand, on Liberties Walk (1030 North 2nd Street, 215-923-1313), a jumping-off point for more northerly excursions.
On the border of Fishtown and Kensington, Soup Kitchen Cafe (2146 East Susquehanna Avenue, 215-427-1680) has a couple of outdoor tables, plus artful sandwiches elevated by the likes of house-made pickles and jalapeño-garlic aioli. (Not to mention the best chicken salad in town.)
Mt. Airy’s Avenida (7402 Germantown Avenue, 267-385-6857) has a patio, a homestyle vibe, and outstanding “Ecuadorian bouillabaisse.” Or fancy turning your day trip into an all-night affair? The Raven in New Hope (385 West Bridge Street, 215-862-02081) has drag-show Mondays, male-revue Thursdays, and a pool with a cabana bar for eating with eye candy for dessert.
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